Paul Harker-Murray, M.D.

WHAT HE DOES: Treats all types of childhood cancers; specializes in pediatric Hodgkin’s lymphoma and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

HIS ROOTS: Born in Minneapolis; never thought he’d live south of the Mason-Dixon Line “because it’s too hot, and I knew I would miss the snow.”

PROUD DAD: Has three boys of his own, ages 1, 3, and 5.

PARENTAL ANGST: Oldest son, Matthew, has Williams syndrome, a genetic disorder that results in physical and developmental delays and chronic medical problems. “Based on what I knew about Williams syndrome, I was able to say to my wife, ‘Matthew will have some challenges, but he will laugh, he will run, he will play, and he will love. He will have a life full of joy.’ ”

BALANCING ACT: Sometimes feels he’d be a better doctor if he worked longer hours, but a better father if he left work earlier — and that Matthew would reach his milestones more quickly if he devoted more time to him. “The bottom line is that I love my family and love my work, and am trying to do my best in all realms.”

THAT SOMETHING SPECIAL: “There’s something intangible about people who get along with kids. We all talk about the cerebral aspects of medicine, the complexities of the challenge, and the continuity of care — but we’re all in this because we just really like kids.”